Question: Pledge of Allegiance

[Abaduck]

I'm finally taking the oath and becoming a US citizen today :)

I'll be wearing my FD uniform for the ceremony, and this has prompted some debate between myself and my buddies: how should a FF in dress uniform take the Pledge of Allegiance?

I've read/been told that those in civvy clothes remove hat, hold hat on left shoulder and recite pledge. Those in uniform stand at attention, render the military salute, and remain silent. But I've also read/been told that 'uniform' only applies to *military* uniform, and a FF in uniform should remove hat and recite pledge as a civilian would. Others say that's not true.

So what do you guys and gals do?

Thanks!

Mike

[Bones42]

We (my company) remove our hats. Period.

[MalahatTwo7]

CONGRATULATIONS on becoming a Citizen.

In full dress military uniform I would expect to salute in the correct manner. Being silent or reciting the pledge would depend on are you in formation or standing as an individual?

In your specific instance, I think that removal of head dress would be appropriate.

However, I am Canadian, and military, so what would I know? :D BUT, during our FD co meetings, the Pledge is given at the opening, and even though it is not my Pledge, and I am authorized to recite it, I do still stand to attention, as is only respectfully proper.

[voyager9]

However, I am Canadian, and military, so what would I know? :D BUT, during our FD co meetings, the Pledge is given at the opening, and even though it is not my Pledge, and I am authorized to recite it, I do still stand to attention, as is only respectfully proper.

Wait.. Canadians don't recite the Pledge of Allegiance? Aren't you the 51st state yet? :)

[Resq1scnd2none]

I believe you can salute if you are wearing any type of uniform.

To salute the flag, all persons come to attention. Those in uniform give the appropriate formal salute as specified by the uniform service. Citizens not in uniform salute by placing their right hand over their hearts. Men wearing a head cover (a hat, cap or other headwear) are to remove it. Women may wear a head covering.

[MalahatTwo7]

Wait.. Canadians don't recite the Pledge of Allegiance? Aren't you the 51st state yet? :)

No. No. Ya got it wrong... you guys are gonna become the 12th Province. heeheheeeehe

[CaptainGonzo]

Stand at attention, give a crisp salute and recite!

Welcome to our newest legal citizen!

[doughesson]

Congratulations.
I was born on the Fourth of July so citizenship is rather special to me.
As to your question,if in uniform follow your department's guidelines for saluting.Will you be indoors?Does your department remove covers(hats for non Navy types)when indoors unless on watch?
Once again,congratulations on the work required to gain citizenship.

[GodSendRain]

Congratulations. And as shown here it sometimes varies from department to department. Look around and see what everyone else is doing, you just don't want to stand out. I once went to a funeral and saw an officer saluting with his left hand, and well . . . :D

[ndvfdff33]

you just don't want to stand out. I once went to a funeral and saw an officer saluting with his left hand, and well . . . :D

You'd be suprised at how much I see that here on the base. It's rather amuzing because generally when it happens some crusty old Artillery Sergent Major or some other hardass is walking and promptly jacks them up for being an idiot. I mean your in the military people you should know at the very least you salute with your right hand.

My favourite is people saluting Master Warrant Officers and Chiefs. Thats always good for a laugh when the MWO or Chief just keeps walking by them laughing.



P.S. Congrats on taking the oath.

[Sugarfoot]

I just want to add my Congratulations too!!!!

[Abaduck]

Thanks guys... well for the Pledge at the Oath ceremony I finally decided to follow the advice of my oldest buddy, a Marine who served in Vietnam (since it wasn't a department event)... hats on, face the flag, salute.

The deed is done, here's the proof... many thanks for congratulations!

Mike